The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is offering a funding opportunity titled "Miniaturization and Automation of Tissue Chip Systems (MATChS)" through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) cooperative agreement mechanism. This initiative aims to support the development of automated, miniaturized tissue chip platforms that enhance microphysiological systems (MPS) for improved drug discovery and regulatory assessments, with a focus on creating portable systems that maintain 3D tissue constructs and integrate real-time monitoring technologies. The program is significant in advancing innovative in vitro methods that can potentially replace traditional animal testing in biomedical research, aligning with current regulatory trends favoring alternative assessment methods. Interested small businesses can apply for a total funding commitment of up to $2.15 million, with applications due by January 22, 2024, and the earliest project start date anticipated for February 22, 2024. For further inquiries, applicants may contact NIH Grants Information at grantsinfo@nih.gov.